Remember “Spirit Week” in high school when there would be a Twin Day and you and your BFF would dress exactly alike? Well that’s kind of what photographer Cheyne Gallarde does for fun! The artist dresses up and poses like people of all different backgrounds and ethnicities for a project he calls Universe of One. Gallard posted a Kickstarter at the end of last year offering to create a twinsie pic for each one of his backers. Needless to say, the project was quickly funded and Gallard has been very busy recreating the photos for his book which will be out in mid-April. Tumblr will soon be featuring his work on their blog, hence the lead image of Gallard as CEO David Karp. Check out our interview with Gallard after the jump then head over to his Facebook for more twin-tastic images and the latest news for how to be a part of Volume 2!

CG: The shots that were most challenging were ones of people who don’t wear makeup or have a lot of props in their source photo. Dustin Santos’ picture with the bike in the background definitely required some creative thinking.

VN: How much time does it typically take for one picture from setup to the perfect shot?

Typically it takes an hour for makeup (sometimes longer) and then I shoot for 20-30 minutes, adjusting the light or adding/subtracting wardrobe as I go along. I try to convey the expressions and emotions are closely as possible, which takes several tries.

VN: How have people been responding to your project?

People have been doing double-takes when seeing the photos! The reactions have been very positive and since Kickstarter featured me, there is more demand for a volume II since everyone wants a Twinsies portrait now!